Trevor and Ashlee

A portion of November

2011-12-11T20:20:00.000-07:00

We went to Twin Falls for Thanksgiving and spent some time with my family. We are missing one camera and the memory card from the other, so we only have our phones which equals not many pictures.

We watched Dallin's and Landon's wrestling match and Collin couldn't resist taking a turn on the mat, Trevor was happy to jump on with him.

A bunch of my family went to the Boise State game just after Thanksgiving. Trevor and I had left Collin so many times we decided we didn't want to leave him again and took him with us, you can see he did great!

Dallin and Becki and the game. Becki was on crutches and hopped all the way up to our seats which were not far from the top! She's my hero.

Trevor and Collin infront of the smurf turf at the end of the game

This is probably one of my new favorite pictures. This is what I often get when I ask Collin for a kiss! He's such a stinker and growing way way to fast.

A morning with the boy...

2011-11-21T14:40:00.000-07:00

Collin and I were just hanging out on the couch one morning and I decided to take a video with the phone. Its not the best quality, but it gives you an idea of some of the things he is able to say and do. He does a lot more than this video shows, but like I said here is a taste!

The Happenings

2011-11-17T09:42:00.001-07:00

So I haven't posted, really just because I haven't. Here are a few pics that we've snapped the last little while.

Taking a nap (this is a favorite position)

Looking at some fish with cousin Russell

First major boo-boo at the park

Watching a show with Daddy

Exhausted, but still kickin' it

I've been trying to get a few videos uploaded but for some reason it won't upload. I'll keep trying and hopefully we'll get it put up soon.

Settled

2011-10-17T10:22:00.000-06:00

Actually, I don't feel very settled at all. I guess this place just doesn't feel like home yet. Don't mistake my tone, I do like it here. Its a fun little town. The land scape is far different from anything I've seen, yet alone lived in and I'm finding it surprisingly hard to adjust to. But I'm sure I will.

Agri-Service is getting ready to build a new store here in Roosevelt and bought some property that had a home on it. So for now that's where we're staying so Trevor can oversee the building process. Hopefully soon we'll find our own place, but we're grateful to have this wonderful place to stay now. I finally found the cameras but the batteries are dead, so once they're charged will do a photo tour or something.

We spend a lot of our free time exploring the surrounding area. The scenery changes quickly, go north for 30 min and it turns into a beautiful forrest area, with lots of wildlife and fishing and camping areas, go east 30 min and you run into some high country desert with loads of prairie dogs. To the west green mountain landscapes, although that may be a little farther. Its kind of fun having so many different places to visit in just a short drive.

We're probably going to try to go camping this weekend if the weather will hold, if anyone wants to come and join us, please do, we'd love to have some company!

A post from the phone

2011-10-01T20:24:00.000-06:00

So we are here in Roosevelt Utah and have been for a few weeks. I still don't have Internet, but should be getting it this week. I promise I'll post as soon as a do and share some great stories and pictures. I know you are all dying to see them!

A story and a Trip and a Move

2011-09-06T11:57:00.001-06:00

Lots has been going on lately with the Thomas crew I'm not sure I can get it all down. And I don't have any pictures to speak of, but I'll try to get some up later. Here's some of the things we've been dealing with.

Trevor's brother Travis got a rope wrapped around his ankle and was dragged for about a quarter mile by my horse Ty. Thankfully, he was able to free himself and got help quickly. He's healing really well, but still not able to attend school or play football. We are totally bummed about that since we made a trip out to the valley for that reason, but having Travis safe and on the mend is a great blessing. I guess we'll have to come back later after the doc gives him the go ahead to play. Darn, another trip to the most beautiful land ever. We spent all day yesterday in the mountains and at a reservoir. It was so much fun. Trevor's uncle has access to the dam and he was able to give us a tour, we walked through the tunnel to a cabin type thing that was 70 feet under the reservoir. It was kind of scary, but a once in a life-time experience. No, pictures, they aren't aloud. I love Colorado wilderness, I wish you all could see how beautiful and wonderful it is.

Through a series of divinely planned events just before we came out to the Valley, Trevor was offered a great job working for a company called Agri-Service He gets to work back into the agricultural field selling farm equipment and managing a store. We are so grateful for this wonderful job, it came at the perfect time and gives us all the opportunities we were hoping to have. We haven't even officially started working, and already love it a thousand times more than what we were doing. So you'll have to come visit us in our new home, in...

Roosevelt, Utah! yep, the middle of nowhere! Its not too far from Vernal, and just a few hour drive from the I-15 corridor. I'm really excited to not live in the middle of Utah, and to move out to the country. I wish it were a little closer to family, but it puts us right in the middle of Trevor's family and my own.

I have to add here how much I love Trevor. He is a wonderful man. I didn't realize when we were married how lucky I was to have him. Although we don't always see eye to eye, and aren't always to best communicators, I would never trade him in. I can't even put into words all the wonderful things I see in him and love about him. He is such a wonderful father, always taking the time to play with Collin and teaching him how to work and not give up, how to laugh and have fun and how to be a tough, kind boy. Although I know I try his patience, he sticks with me and works so hard day in and day out to provide a great life for me. Today is our 3 year anniversary and I have loved every day of it! I love you Trev!

So the next few weeks will be crazy, moving, getting trained and finding a new home. I'll try to post more often (roll your eyes and exclaim, "I don't believe you!") but if you don't hear from me, know you know why.

PS. I stepped on my first nail ever! I'm trying to make it sound exciting, but really it hurt like nothing else. But I can almost walk normally, and its a really small hole in the bottom of my foot. Don't worry, I got a tetanus booster so I'll be fine too.

Campout

2011-07-19T15:10:00.001-06:00

We decided to go camping this past weekend! We loaded up the truck and headed for the hills above Coeur d'Alene and found the perfect little campsite. Our friends Justin and Courtney came with us, along with Uncle Travis. Collin loved being in the outdoors, crawling around in the dirt, but really loved playing in the tent on all the blankets and sleeping bags. It was hard to get pictures cause he was so wiggly!

This was the face he made when he saw it was Trevor shaking the tent and making growling noises

We had a lot of fun sitting around the campfire and eating good campout food!

Trevor, Justin and Travis found the perfect sticks and made quite the setup for cooking, it was fun to use it, I've only seen this done in the movies.

Hangin out with Uncle Travis

Collin napping

About a Boy

2011-06-23T23:35:00.002-06:00

It makes me laugh that pretty much the only thing I blog about anymore is Collin. I told myself I wouldn't do that. While I'm sure I am capable of writing more interesting or conversational posts, I find I really want to share the things Collin is doing. So I will work on being more interesting, but for now, enjoy this adorable video Collin playing with his dad.

Before I shed the work hat to become a stay at home mom, I worked in the field of child development for the last 5+ years. It makes me excited when I see him doing all these great developmental things that I have been studying and helping other kids learn to do. In other areas, Collin has 12 teeth, and walked across the living room the other day. I'm sure I'll post more of that later.

PS excuse my voice, I have a cold.

Birthday Boy

2011-06-08T21:42:00.001-06:00

One year ago we had this sweet boy change our lives for the better.

Can you believe one whole year has passed? Collin is 4x the size he was a year ago.

We had A BBQ birthday party with some family and some of our friends from work. It was a great day.

I love this kid so much! I'm so happy to be his mama. At one year old, he is just weeks away from walking, eats anything and everything I put in front of him and, his cowboy blanket is his favorite thing and he cries and cries when daddy leaves for work and races to the door anytime he hears it open. He gives high fives, and kisses and is already being engrained to love football.

Vacation!!

2011-05-17T18:23:00.000-06:00

At the beginning of May, Trevor and I were able to go on our first ever cruise! Trevor and the team of guys we work with up here have been working really hard and because of all that hard work we were able to go on this trip! I'm so grateful to have a husband who works so hard and provides such wonderful opportunities.

this is the lobby inside the boat right in the center

One of my favorite things about the cruise, beside the wonderful food and comfy beds, was the room service. Each day after we came back to our rooms to get ready for dinner, our bed was made for us, and after we returned from dinner the bed was turned down, ready for us to jump in and sleep. Each night the stewards had created a different animal out of the towels. the monkey was my favorite

Crab

Monkey

seal

we guessed Elephant

Of course we spent a lot of time just lounging in the sun, we got a little rosy, but too bad or painful!

And each night was a magnificent sun set

We did some fun things off the boat as well, lots of snorkeling and a little sight seeing.

Me after an afternoon driving around on dusty roads

We had such a good time, and it was great to just get to spend some time together. We went with some of the guys Trevor is working with and it was fun to get to know them and their wives better as well. Collin stayed with his cousin Paislyn, his aunts Jordan and Randi and Uncle Devin. He was well taken care of and didn't seem to miss us at all. We were glad he was so well taken care of Thanks to Jordan Randi and Devin for that! I would recommend anyone who get the chance to go on a cruise!

Show Me Your Muscles!

2011-02-22T15:15:00.003-07:00

This may have totally been coincidental, but he was doing it all through lunch, so I figured I'd see if I could catch it on camera!

Bed Head

2011-02-18T18:03:00.003-07:00

Collin has taken to sleeping on his tummy, and his nose, and is hands and any other position other than his back. This is often what we see when we get him out of bed.

We have been giving Collin lots of new tastes. He's quite efficient at feeding himself whatever I put on his tray. Some of his favorites are peaches, peas, green beans and potatoes (a true momma's boy!) But here is a short video of his first taste of lemonade.

Washington?

2011-02-09T09:56:00.009-07:00

That was my response when Trevor said "What do you think about moving to Washington?" My parents started their early marriage years in Seattle, and I'd made a few trips there growing up and I always liked the state. Not to mention a move would mean I could quit my job, which I wasn't enjoying and stay home with my growing baby. My answer was quick "I like Washington!" The months from when we decided we were moving until we actually did were hard. Trevor was traveling a lot, which means Collin and I missed him a ton. Work wasn't getting any better, in fact in my mind it seemed to grow exponentially more difficult each day. And I found myself constantly reassuring friends and family that we were making a good choice and there was no need to worry. But the time finally came when I left work behind, packed up our belongings and hit the road. I cried as we pulled away from our home. OUR HOME. The first one we ever had. The place we came to rest, where we ate and prayed together. The place where we became a family. Collin's first home.

from the frontIn the back yard

Washington is grey. Often. Although we live on the east side of the state and the grey is significantly less than the coast (Thanks Heavens) it was a struggle for me. I've debated sharing this, I don't want to give people the wrong impression, but it was hard being here. Our routine was all messed up, I wasn't used to being with Collin all day and Trevor's schedule was completely unpredictible. I felt so lonely. I called my mom and sisters several times a day just to have someone to talked to. BUT things did settle down. It didn't take long to swing into full-time Mommy mode and I can say now, I've never been happier.

I have to give props to some of the ladies in my family. I was so anxious about moving, even though I knew it was for the best. I was comfortable in Benson and wasn't ready to give that up. My parents were in the Army and moved every couple of kids. When they settled in Twin Falls they were expecting me...#6. Mom I admire you that even more. My sisters, Kim and Becki, moved across the country and back with children in tow as well. My brother and his wife have done the same. But I think Juli, takes the cake. She and her husband Shon who works in the Oil Industry have lived in Louisiana, Texas(2 times), New Mexico, Halifax Nova Scotia, Canada and Australia! It made my move, just one state away, manageable. At least I wasn't moving across the biggest ocean into a time zone with more than a 24 hour difference from home.

My point is, this move has helped me and blessed me in so many was already. I appreciate family and friends more than ever. Trevor and I, already close, are that much closer. Collin is growing like a weed, and I get to see it all. The new business venture is turning out to be successful as we had faith it would. My life is good, and I love it.

But who wouldn't?

nearly 8 months

2011-01-30T18:16:00.006-07:00

I cannot believe that Collin is coming up on 8 months old. Where did all the time go. I swear I had more of it!

Well we are settled here in Liberty Lake Washington. It is very beautiful here and I am dying for summer to come around so I can enjoy the beauty surrounding us. We're living in a two bedroom apartment for now, about half the size of our home in Benson (I really miss Benson by the way) It was a little tricky to get all the stuff put away into the right places but I think we've done it. We plan to stay here long enough to save some money, and make sure the new job works out, then we'll find another home when we know more what we'll be doing with our lives.

Just hanging out with Dad, probably watching football

Collin is growing like a weed. He's already outgrown most of the clothes he was given at Christmas and prefers to wear 18 mo. sizes. He cut his top two teeth, (not as easy as the bottom two) got his first serious cold and is oh so close to crawling. He sits up all by himself, successfully finger feeds himself 1 out of 5 tries and rolls around the house like a mad man. He's sleeping better than ever(which is REALLY well since he's always slept well) and we gave him his first hair cut!

Before

and after

not any award winning hair cut, but I thought it was pretty decent for a 7 month old wiggly boy. I think this picture is my all time favorite. I was trying to take a picture of the new do for the grandparents and I said "Collin Smile!" and this is the look I got! I laughed so hard.

I am really starting to enjoy just being home. I wasn't expecting it to be such an adjustment. I was so burnt out from my last job I feel as if I've been recovering from something this last month. It takes a while to shed off that much stress.

Relocated

2011-01-20T19:41:00.002-07:00

Please forgive the extreme lack of blogging. The last few months have been a little stressful. Long story short Trevor, Collin and I have relocated to Liberty Lake Washington. We're still getting settled, and I plan to make a huge blog about it later!

Here's what we've been up to...

2010-10-30T16:28:00.009-06:00

Watching lots of football

Going to Church

Celebrating Halloween

Eating some solid food

And lots of smiles!

Do you see the two little teeth that popped up overnight?

For those who only see the Grumpy face!

2010-10-09T17:37:00.007-06:00

Collin loves to watch Trevor. He is always trying to copy his faces and sounds. Its adorable.

Trevor is also teaching Collin to love football. Go Gators!

A new cousin

2010-09-12T19:00:00.005-06:00

When I was expecting Collin I was a little worried that he wasn't going to have any cousins to play with. Thankfully my sister Becki, my cousin Natalie and Trevor's sister Randi decided to join in the baby game.

Miss Mia was born in March and is an answer to so many prayers, we are thrilled to have her.

Russell came 3 weeks before Collin.

And just a few weeks ago we went to Idaho to meet Paislyn

First Trip to The Valley

2010-09-12T18:25:00.004-06:00

In July we took a trip to visit the Thomas family in Colorado. We had so much fun visiting and playing with everyone.

Collin got a chance to wear his new boots and overalls.

Uncle Marvin let him ride one of the ponies at The Celebration

(he didn't think it was all that fun, maybe when he'a a little older)

Trevor took Collin fishing.

Uncle Travis took Collin for a ride in the truck

Collin and Grandma watching Trevor, Grandpa and Uncle Devin halter break our colt Ty

Grandma and Aunt Randi watched Collin so Trevor and I could go watch Uncle Milo in the demolition derby

After spending so much time in the car, Collin felt he was ready to take the wheel. He's growing up so fast.

Blessed

2010-07-12T15:30:00.008-06:00

Collin is already a month old! I can't believe how big he's getting. In his newborn pictures he seems so small! He is spending a little more time awake and showing us his adorable smile. Every once in a while we'll even get a laugh from him. Here he is on his first outdoor trip. Thanks Uncle Travis for lending Collin the awesome white sunglasses!We blessed him on the 4th of July and it was such a great experience. This outfit was worn by Trevor and Grandpa Wayne, along with several other Thomas relatives.We had loads of family here, and it was so much fun having everyone over.Collin, Cousin Mia and second cousin RussellThe rest of the wild gang (minus Josh, Emmett, Grant and Henry) wow that's a lot of kidsIt was so much fun to have my sisters around (we missed you Kendra and Emily, and I'm sorry that you aren't in this picture Lindsay)Brother A came from Arkansas (ok, he happened to be visiting anyway, but it was fun to have him here, we've really missed him since he moved away)Trevor's family from Colorado came too(who I sadly don't have many pictures of) Here is Great-Grandma Annette with Collin, 3rd Great for grandma, but 1st great boyHere is a sad excuse for a 4 generation picture, Trevor, Grandma Debbie, Great Grandma Annette and Collin, it was just before the Thomas family headed out the door. As usual, I leave everything tot he last minute.I just put this picture in cause I like it.

We are doing great, I've been blessed with a speedy recovery, an adorable son and countless friends and family that are more than willing to jump in and help out. I'm so grateful to everyone for all the love and support we've felt/received.

Collin's Entry

2010-06-20T21:49:00.004-06:00

It was June 7th 2010, and I was 39 weeks and 6 days pregnant. Trevor and I were at the Dr.'s office hoping he'd just send us right over to the hospital to get this show on the road. I was tired, physically, mentally and emotionally and I was ready to be done being pregnant. (I really struggled having to listen to everyone's comments about my body, like "you look huge" or "you're still here" all things I'm sure are meant with good intentions, but I just found annoying and discouraging. I have to say, my friend Jessica always had uplifting things to say, like "you are so cute!" or "I'm so excited for you!" much better route to take with a grumpy pregnant woman, but I digress...Our Dr. informed us that Logan Regional Hospital has a policy, no inductions for first time pregnancy's before 41 weeks without a medical reason. I tried my best to have high blood pressure, or something but alas I was fit as a fiddle and we would simply have to wait until this baby was ready to come. so we scheduled an induction for a week later and set out to wait...

After work I came home and settled on the couch, like normal and waited for Trevor while I rested. At about 7:30 I figured Trevor was close to home and I should get some dinner started, so I got my large body off the couch and headed for a quick trip to the bathroom. Just before I got there, my water broke. It took me a few minutes to realize what had happened. The nurse told us, very few women actually have the water break on their own so I was a little shocked. Once I convinced myself that was indeed my water, I got to my phone and called Trevor. Fortunately he was close, just coming through the canyon, I think my exact words were, "You might want to hurry, I think my water just broke." To which he replied "...are you serious? OK, I'll be there in a minute."

I felt calm. I think I was still in shock, or maybe just preparing myself for the unknown. I gathered the last few items we need for our bag and waited for Trevor to come get me. Thirty minutes later we were on our way to the hospital. My friend Lacy, who was due less than a week after me sent me a text asking how my Dr. appointment that morning had gone, I told her it went well, but we were on our way to the hospital right now. My sister-in-law called me and told me she had been thinking about me and just wanted to see how I was doing. I love that they were both so on the ball and knew I was going to have that baby soon!

I wasn't having contractions, so the started me on Pitocin a few hours after we got all checked in and hooked up. Around 11:3o or 12 I started to feel them, but they weren't too bad. We had to turn the Pitocin up quite a bit before they got good and hard and by 2 am I was ready for my epidural. In my opinion the labor part wasn't too bad, because I didn't have to deal with it for that long. We watched a movie, Trevor caught a few zzz, but I didn't because the nurses were coming in a lot to check on me.

I wasn't progressing very quickly so it took until 11:45 the next morning before we were ready to start pushing. At 2:30 we were still pushing. I was exhausted, I hadn't slept in over 24 hours. Collin was posterior (facing up), but not even totally straight up. He never got very low, he just wasn't making it down through my hips. Finally Dr. Fowers came in and we talked about our options. He said we could try a forceps delivery but because Collin was still so high it was kind of risky and would probably do a lot of damage to my body and a c-section would probably be better. I was so ready to be done, and quickly agreed to the last option.

I can't believe how quickly the room filled with people once Dr. Fowers said c-section. Extra Dr's and nurses. My epidural was cranked up and I was numb from my arms down, but 30 mins later Collin was out.

A c-section is a strange sensation. Collin was wedged in my hips so there was a lot of tugging and pulling and then a wonderful lack of pressure. I could hear Collin squawking is the best word for it, I remember thinking, there's a baby over there. When the Dr. showed him to me I thought "That's a monster" I was really out of it for the next day or so. I'm sure it was complete exhaustion and an overdose of medication and who knows what else. I kept throwing up, and I couldn't sleep...it was a long couple of days, but I got better and Collin did well, and a few days later, the Dr.'s let us come home where my mom was waiting to take care of us. We miss you mom!

We are still doing well, settling into a routine and just enjoying being parents.

He's here!

2010-06-10T21:12:00.002-06:00

Collin Wayne Thomas9lbs 6 oz

21 inches
born by c-section after 3 hours of pushing!
He's perfectly healthy, happy and large!
I'm doing really well, healing quickly, and learning the ins and outs of motherhood. Trevor is a pure natural. He stepped up and took great care of Collin while I was out of it and unable to get out of bed.

Whats in a name?

2010-06-03T14:36:00.002-06:00

I'm sure many of you have been patiently waiting for me to announce our little bundle has arrived, but alas, we are still waiting, but not so patiently. As the day seems to move farther and farther away and my tummy makes the same move outward, I find myself thinking a lot about his name to be.

1. are people going to hate it? This is part of the reason I've rarely mentioned the name to people and I'm still hesitant to say it out loud even as close as we are, what if people give me that look like "Oh dear, that's an awful name, but I can't let my face show it!" no matter how good you are, you cannot hide that split second of dread that crosses your face when a name is announced. Hopefully all growing up he won't get that look that says "your parents named you what?"

2.How much I hate hearing to the comment "Oh like... Or "That reminds me of..." One person I told even said, "a spoiled rich kid" All things I'm sure I am SO guilty of.

3. I hope he doesn't hate it

4. the biggest of them all, the spelling. I know several people who have had to deal with unique spellings or a name that has a million spellings such as my own. My parents named me Ashlee, with two e's and no y. Which I have always liked not having a y in my name, it felt unique, like my own name and not just a name for the masses, (which of course Ashlee is, its rare that there isn't a co-worker, friend or ward member with my same name) but I cannot tell you how much of my life I've spent saying, "I'm Ashlee a-s-h-l-e-e" even then I still get Ashley, Ashele, Ashlie, Ashleigh, Ashli...the list goes on and on. who knew one name could be spelled so many ways. Its awkward sometimes to correct people, so I often don't say anything, especially when its not a legal/important document, but when I see Ashley Thomas I always think...who is that? I'm Ashlee Thomas. So that is the last thing I want my children to have to deal with.

Trevor has had the same name in mind since before we were expecting. He ran across it in the temple when his sister Randi got married and it's stuck to him like glue. Over time I've grown used to it, and it feels like his name, and I'm so excited to meet him, sooner rather than later I hope.

Stay tuned, the next time you hear from me, it will be with pictures of our baby.

a request for pictures

2010-04-18T17:01:00.005-06:00

Yesterday I went to visit my cousin Natalie for her baby shower. She and Tyler are going to have a baby about 3 weeks before Trevor and I are, so we have lots of fun together. Nat and Tyler live just a few minutes away from Antelope Island, so we headed out there just in time for the sunset.

These are some of the only pictures I've taken since the belly has filled out. I'm only posting these for those who are far away and don't get to see me, not because I love them.

I got a huge chuckle out of this next picture, please excuse the unpainted toes, they are a little hard to reach.

It was so pretty out on the island. I had to take like 10 pictures to get a semi-serious picture of Trevor. He's always making some strange face or picking lint out of his belly button or something. I love his face goofy or serious. This is his revenge because I took so many pictures of him.

The lake was calm, and there were some pretty awesome skipping rocks. Trevor of course was awesome at it, and I laughed really hard watching Natalie, until I saw pictures of me doing it. I'm going to pin it on the pregnant body. Here is a pretty awesome video. Trevor tried to skip this same rock, but mine was better.

Here are a few more pictures, just for fun.

The buffalo moved right as I snapped this one, its kind of a cool ghostly picture

Grandchild #16

2010-04-04T16:47:00.003-06:00

I mentioned before that Trevor and my baby would be grandchild #16 on the Patterson side of the family, but I am happy to announce, he won't be.

I would like you to meet....Amelia Kate Kendrick

She snuck into line a few weeks ago, and we are more than thrilled to have her. She was born a little early, so she is pretty small, but she is a fighter and is gaining weight like crazy! Way to go Mia! Congratulations to Beck, Jer and Ethan! We are so excited for you! (and us, we were getting a little boy crowded, and I'm excited for our little one to have someone to play with!)

Are you entitled?

2010-03-11T12:06:00.004-07:00

Do you wait too long in the grocery line? Is Customer Service serving you enough? Do people treat you badly?

Self-entitlement has been on my mind a lot lately. One Sunday a Sunday School teacher pointed out how much the world has the attitude entitlement, and maybe not so much on self-reliance. Since then, I see it everywhere.

Like the guy at Wal-mart, who was banned from the property and nearly arrested, because he refused to show his receipt when asked. Why did he refuse? good question, he hadn't stolen anything or even done anything wrong, he simply felt he should not have to do it, and would not.

Or even the time I missed a payment and wanted the late fee waived. True story, I wasn't totally aware of when the payment was due, and because of that, I shouldn't have to pay right?...which now, makes no sense.

The story I heard recently, which really made me think, was about a neighborhood somewhere in Utah that had several homes damaged (broken windows, cracks in the siding etc) from an explosion at a refinery nearby. So sad, I know I would be furious, heartbroken... The refinery was up and working now, but the homes weren't fixed. Everyone was mad. I remember one person being interviewed saying "no one has even come by to see how we're doing" again, tragic situation, and I don't mean to downplay the tragedy, I really do feel badly for these frustrated home owners,

BUT when the Teton Dam broke in 1976 and my grandparents home was completely washed away my Grandpa said... "We'll start over. We did it before, we'll do it again." Grandpa was not young at the time, it was hard work, but that is just what he did, started over without complaint.

I want to be like that.

There's a rumbly in my tummy

2010-02-03T12:56:00.005-07:00

And its not because I'm hungry!

Its a boy and he'll be making his appearance on June 8th!

Our boy will be the 12th grandson on the Patterson side, we are thrilled to have tons of cousins for our little guy to play with, including the 4 wonderful girls bringing the grand total to 16! He'll be the first grandchild on Trevor's side of the family and they are excited. Trevor's sister Randi is expecting her first baby just a couple of months after our boy is born, which we are looking forward too. We are so happy to have two little ones so close in age.

The first trimester was pretty easy. I never felt very sick, mostly tired (thus the blog lack) but other than that I've felt great. Second trimester has been great too, I've probably struggled more with crazy emotions (pointless weeping and wicked mood swings) and tiredness again. All of which is a million times worse for Trevor. but he is the best, ever. He's always there when I need a hug and so reassuring when my doubts arise. And so patient when I'm unreasonable. Dad's should win a special award for putting up with moms while they are pregnant. I couldn't ask for a better companion. I'm excited to have his baby and be a family.

The first time I felt him move was during the NCAA National Championship between Alabama and Texas on January 7th. I'm almost 23 weeks, growing more each day and feeling every little squirm. He's getting stronger and kicks me hard enough that its sometimes a tad uncomfortable.

Trevor and I have talked about some names, we have a few we like, but I'm wary to share. It seems everyone has an opinion, and honestly, I don't need to hear all the different ones. Trevor and I will decided for sure once we see his little face and announce it after he's born!

The Drama that caused the Trama

2009-10-21T11:54:00.002-06:00

Trevor has slept peacefully for the past several months. Which means I've slept peacefully for the last several months.

Two nights ago, the peace was broken. I have no idea what time it was, but all of a sudden Trevor started shouting, being abruptly woken by the shouting, I wasn't completely coherent myself. I do remember "ITS FALLING, YOU HAVE TO MOVE!" as he braced the "shaking" head board with one hand while attempting to push me out of the way with the other. I tried all my tricks to get him to wake up or realize nothing was falling. But he was insistent and in a very panicked state kept yelling at me to move. Nothing worked. I was seriously scared. I found myself screaming, "Trevor, Trevor!" (I'm sure my panicked scrams really helped the idea of me being in danger in Trevor's mind, if some one was outside they would have thought I was being murdered) I remember holding his face in my hand pleading "Please wake up, please wake up!" on the verge of tears, literally. Which led to discussions like "but this is falling, I'm holding it here with my hand" Eventually Trevor woke enough, and dazed and confused lay on his back, sweating like crazy, panting, with a racing heart. I tried to sooth him, but was so shaken up myself I'm sure I did a bad job. Two other times that night Trevor tried to save me from some mysterious objects, but none quite as dramatic as that first time. The shock of it has barely worn off today, I still feel a little shaken. He remembers laying there sweating, but that's it. He apologized for scaring me in the morning but observed "at least I'm trying to protect you" there's one thing to be grateful for.

Last night, we had to catch the cookies before they fell. I must have failed, because Trevor kept asking me "did you get them? they are right there. Are you going to reach your hand in here and get them...well?" In all fairness, Trevor sensing how traumatized I felt from the night before had offered to sleep on the couch. Maybe I should have taken him up on that.

A little up date

2009-09-24T15:52:00.003-06:00

Sorry for the non-commitment to the blog lately. I always think..."oh, I'll do it later" Later is finally here. Since the last time you read....

My cousin Natalie and her husband came for a visit, and we floated the beautiful Bear River, it was a blast! (anyone is welcome to come try it, of course in the winter, might not be as fun, but I'll promise you some awesome tubing over the frozen river/swamp by our house)

Trevor's sister Randi got married! Yey! we love Devin, he fits in just perfectly.

My friend Melissa got married! Jake is a great guy, and I'm thrilled to see my friend so happy!

Trevor and I celebrated our 1 year anniversary at a fabulous hotel in the SLC area, it was so much fun, I think we'll do it every year!

Trevor's sister Deslie got engaged to Milo, we are so excited for them and can't wait to hit Vegas for their wedding in the Las Vegas temple.

My sister Juli Robinson ran her second marathon and set a new personal best by 15 minutes!

I'm so proud of her, it was very inspiring. I thought, maybe I'll try it too (not the whole 26.2 miles of course, but part of it. After my first day of "training" I changed my mind! Now Juli and her cute fame are off to Aussie land, yup they have moved to Brisbane, not so far from the zoo that was run by Steve Irwin, still sad he died, by the way.

Cameras still no cooperating, sorry no pics.

I found a new friend

2009-07-12T23:05:00.001-06:00

Currently taking residence in my garage

More Sleepytime mumblings

2009-06-25T13:30:00.007-06:00

I must be getting used to Trevor's mid-night ramblings because I don't hear them much anymore. I've had a few lectures here and there such as "I told you, do what you want!" Or the time it was so important that everything had to be said twice, twice. But things have been pretty quiet for the most part. Last night however was a different.

Trevor shot up in bed mumbling something...I talked to him for a minute, but eventually just said, "you can lay down now" to which he replied, "but I have to find the brush!" It seemed very urgent so I let it be. He reached down to the foot of the bed and started feeling around, over, under the comforter between my feet, after a few minutes he said "huh, I can't find it" and returned to bed. At some point he sat up shouting about buns. Trevor often starts shouting in his sleep to which I usually rub his back and say sh sh sh, just like he were going to wake up the non-existent child we have, but last night I think I feel back asleep mid sh.

At my family reunion a few weeks ago, my family slept together in a cabin and my sister asked Trevor to please talk in his sleep. Since she asked so nicely, Trevor just had to start yelling "Yes, NO." I got to him pretty quick and quieted him up, but I still think he woke the whole cabin.

Just on a side note, I need to dish out some congrats to the scores of friends who have birthed or will be birthing the the months to come, Anna S., Jill, Ashley, Fallon, Lisa, Dixie, Anna P., Amy, Ginger, Emily, April, Jamie, Ashlee, Shauna, Jen, Aria, Bethany, Jenete and Amanda, if anyone else wants to be added onto the list, let me know... I wish you all the best with your new bundles of joy.

Rain Rain go away

2009-06-13T10:58:00.003-06:00

" I thought we lived in Logan, UT, not Seattle WA" a common phrase around here these days!

Its rained nearly everyday for about 2.5 weeks. Everything is drowning, my garden, the farmers hay, and some of the corn. Mentally I feel like its mid February and my skin and mind are desperate for some sunlight! Yesterday was actually decent weather, I along with hoards of neighbors spent a good deal of time walking up and down the street to soak as much fair weather as possible. There are a few positives about the crummy weather. 1. I don't have to go work in the yard, 2. Trevor doesn't have to work in the yard 3. non-guilt about the exorbitant amount of time I spend reading, 4 watching movies snuggled with the honey in a cool living room.

Trevor finally got to meet my dad's extended family last weekend at the good old George Edward Patterson Reunion. Although 10 of my dad's 11 siblings were there, we were missing at least 60 cousins, their spouses and their children. But I suppose when your spread from California to Kingston Ontario Canada, it gets difficult to get everyone together at the same time.

Trevor started his summer academics and is handleing having to sit still for several hours at time well and I'm just working away. All-in-all, all is well. (you try use all that many times in one sentance!)

Car Story

2009-05-04T16:36:00.003-06:00

Before I get to telling my story, I have to apologize for the lack of blogging, as I mentioned before, I broke my camera, then my laptop with all my pictures on it died. Trevor does have a camera, but I haven't taken the time to sit down and figure out how to get the pictures onto our computer. So blogs for the next bit will be picture less, or have limited pictures. Sorry.

Ever since Trevor and I moved to Logan we have had incredibly bad luck with our cars. we've had a few run-ins with the police, (we have definitely contributed our fair share to the sheriff's office, so they better not come asking for donations.) I slid off the road into a ditch one icy morning (first time in my life I've run off the road) as a result, we have two new tires! Trevor's car has a loose motor mount (huh?), we've had dead batteries, safety inspections and Utah's ridiculous registration fees just to name a few.

About a week ago Trev and I traveled to Twin Falls to visit my much neglected family and on our way back had a run in with some cast of tread in the middle of the freeway. Which messed up the bumper significantly. Trevor was able to bungee the plastic part of the underside of the bumper so it didn't drag(mind you it was 12:30 at night and literally freezing outside), and we made it home safe sin (spanish for without) driver side bumper. Well today, the rig we had in place, came un-rigged. I could hear the plastic scraping on the road so I pulled over, checked it out, saw that I couldn't fix it, called Trevor who was way far away and had no means of coming to my rescue. we deduced that it was just plastic, and would have to be replaced anyway, so other than being obnoxiously loud and somewhat annoying, no damage would be done, at leat none to the part of the car we wanted to keep. So I drove to my appointments for work, dragging my mangled bumper on the ground.

Everywhere I went people would stop, turn around and stare at my car that was making this awful scraping sound. They would see the problem and look at me like "! Lady, you're dragging your bumper, did you know?" to which I'd simply have to give a big smile and wave. After a few miles or so (OK, it was quite a ways) I decided I had to do something, I couldn't just keep drawing this attention to myself. So I pulled over and pulled out the duct tape. While I was lying on my back fastening pieces of tape to my mangled bumper the children of the home I was going to enter in a few minutes came out and proceeded to ask me what I was doing. I told him, my car was broken, and I was trying to fix it, to which he ran to his mom and yelled, "Mom her car is broken, but its ok, she has tape!"

If you are wondering, duct tape really does fix everything! White Trash...here I come.

My sister

2009-04-17T13:32:00.006-06:00

Did you see my new button? I'd like to tell you about it and my sister.
My sister and her husband and son are looking for a baby. There are so many wonderful things I could say about Beck, Jer and Ethan that I literally don't know where to start. My sister is one of my heroes. She can do anything, including successfully beat cancer 3 times. She is a wonderful mom, full of fun, patience, creativity and she incredibly supportive of her boys. Ethan who loves music, can hum and name and composers of more classical songs than I can, and he's only 6. Jeremy is one of the most intelligent, naturally happy people I know, who is a great a pediatrician. Jeremy's sister in law is the talented cjane, she wrote a beautiful message about them, visit her blog here to read even more.

But most of all, please take a minute to check out Beck and Jer's family blog by clicking my new button on the right, and keep them in mind if you know of anyone who is considering adoption.

My economic plan

2009-03-27T22:17:00.003-06:00

The times that we live in are no doubt challenging. As the economy moves forward in its current condition many of us struggle to make up the difference in our personal budgets and lifestyles. The government has come up with various plans to help or stimulate things. For example, last year’s stimulus check, $600 given to me to help me with my financial woes and to encourage a trip to the mall, which in turn would stimulate the economy. Brilliant. Did it go in savings? Did it go to the mall? I don’t know…but I do know that I have to claim it on my tax return this year, decreasing my rebate by the aforementioned $600.

Thank you for giving me money I did not ask for, want or even need without clearly explaining the terms. Be sure to read the fine print.

Another example the 2008 first time home buyer $7,500 credit. What an incentive to buy a home! $7,500 dollars to fix up the home, or even, if you wish pay of other debts, what ever you want, its your money! Seventy-five hundred dollars! Wahoo! *the 2008 first time home buyers credit should be considered as a interest free loan which will be paid back over a period of 15 years at $500 per year. Now, the reward for being brave and weathering the rocky times, buying a home, actively participating in the economy despite the difficulties; 7500 dollars of debt. Come on, lets take it for what it is, DEBT, interest free or not.

Here is my plan

Trevor, who works so hard to bridge the gap in our budget, because of what he does, we have a nice home, cars that work and a bright and promising future. No one, with any amount of money can top that. (Not to mention the 8 cows and two horses he brought into the marriage along with his amazingly upbeat and positive attitude.)

Mom and Dad, who did a fab job raising me, teaching me to work, to fulfill my obligations, to think, to study, to learn, to cook, clean, sew and garden, for encouraging me to get educated and helping me do it; and for also teaching me how to save, budget and spend wisely, among thousands of other things.

My sibs, who set a good example, are always willing to lend an ear, and offer good, impartial advice in any situation.

My in-laws, Wayne and Debbie who helped Trevor become the man he is, who welcomed me into their family with open arms, without question or prejudice, who are always supportive and willing to lend a hand.

The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and our inspired leaders for warning, cautioning and helping us prepare for these perilous times.

Thanks to the government for trying to bring me down, I mean help me during these economic woes by offering thousands of dollars of debt.

Despite your efforts, my plan is better than yours.

Do you talk in your sleep?

2009-03-20T19:38:00.004-06:00

That is a question that is hard to know the answer to. After all, you only know if you talk in your sleep when someone has said you do, and then you have to question the honesty of the person telling you.

Trevor talks in his sleep. Only his sleep talking usually involves more than talking. If you don't believe me ask any one of his six other family members, they'll back me up on this. Some nights he just mumbles or gets out a few words, this I barely wake for anymore. At times he'll moan and kind of growl at something (a light back rub and a soothing sh sh sh, keeps that from exploding in to anything) but often times he'll sit up in bed or even get out of bed acting out some crazy dream.

For example:
On our honeymoon, Trevor sits on the side of the bed and sighs, I ask "Whats are you doing?"
T-"I have to go to work."
A-"No you don't"
T-"Uh, I think so"
A-"But babe, we're in Colorado"
T-"But they came and told me I need to"
Long Pause
T-"Well maybe not"
To which he laid back down and quickly fell back asleep

Or there was the time he jumped out of bed, and flipped on the light insisting we needed to get up...at 1 am.

But I think last night is my favorite.

It was probably around 4 am. I'm peacefully sleeping, and I hear "Oh Piss" and Trevor darts up to his knees.
Now you think after 6 months of this I'd get the idea by now that Trevor is asleep, but nope, I respond in a slight panic "What? What's the matter?"
To which Trevor replies, "slide behind me" Then, he stretches his hands into the air like he's reaching for something.
A- I'm confused, and laughing at Trevor reaching up for nothing and I say "What? Why?"
Trevor says, "everything is falling."
I roll my eyes and my body "no its not, its just a dream." A few minutes pass, Trevor is leaning forward and he says "Um...your on my foot" (somehow his foot ended up under my knee) I move my legs so he can lay back down. A few more minutes pass, Trevor hasn't stopped moving, so I ask him,"Are you ok?"
"I just can't believe that was all a dream"

Morning comes, he remembers...nothing, except that I was on his foot.

A conviction

2009-02-26T17:31:00.003-07:00

Since I don't really remember, I haven't watched rated "R" movies. Of course I've seen some, there are even a few good ones out there, but generally I try to steer away from them. The Patterson family has a really good, old family friend who doesn't understand why I've made that choice, and we've had endless debates about why I don't but as I explained to him, that I chose not to do so, not only because prophet said I shouldn't, But because I don't want to, not because of what anyone said.

The other day, I broke my own conviction. I really really wanted to see The Changeling with Angelina Jolie. With a supportive husband by my side, who assured me he would not mention it to aforementioned family friend, we picked up the movie at the Wal-mart Red Box. I felt SO guilty, but I really wanted to see it. Even as we started the movie, I had a feeling of disbelief of what I was about to do... I really wanted to see it. (I must confess, Trevor offered to intervene on my behalf by saying, "Ash, if you are going to hate yourself for watching this, lets turn it off right now") but I persisted, I wanted to see it.

While the movie was really well done, lacked the general violence, gore and sexuality most "R" movies include, I remember why I don't watch rated "R" movies.

Lesson relearned

The Local Pests

2009-02-09T13:13:00.006-07:00

Some homes are plagued with spiders, some with cochoroaches. My grandparents house often had balls of garder snakes ( say balls because they all coil together in a big tangle of the balls) But here is our biggest pest. Please excuse the poor quality of the video, I was looking with my eyes and not through the screen, so it get s a little off center sometimes. Sorry.

You can see a little of the landscape across the way, its just acres of river bottoms, its really beautiful when the snow is freshly flocking the trees. Thats about the only time I like all the snow we get here!

Home Sweet Home.

2009-02-05T19:06:00.006-07:00

I finally have some pictures! I really am sorry it took so long, but I wanted to finish the drapes first. The living room was cold and boring without them. So here go the pictures.
I took this in November when we were looking, I'll get some winter ones on Saturday when I'm home during daylight!

I have a few before picutres, mostly empty rooms, but you'll get the idea.
The living room before *note the previously blogged "leopard skin carpet" and the gold pole lamp

The angle is a little different, but I think you can see the huge difference. Every time I walk in my door, I think "Oh I have such a cute house!"

Now the bed room...before

and after
I know, its not that different, the bed room needs some help. I think my furniture and the bed make a difference enough............ for now at least. Here is another shot from the door.

And now I have to show you my favorite thing in the kitchen! Its hard to get from the picture, so I'll explain. It is my spice cupboard, inside a cabinet door. I first discovered it when I tried to open the cabinet and opened the spice cupboard instead. The other knob opens the cabinet. Cool eh?

waiting so patiently

2009-01-25T21:29:00.004-07:00

Oh, so many of you are waiting. Unfortunately I had a duh moment, and broke my camera! Trevor has an old one somewhere, so while I'm looking for it, please be patient.

I will give you a quick update. We bought an old farm house across from the river bottoms. It is in great need of decorate update. Once you opened the door, you would encounter the carpet, which my sister Kim nicknamed the leopard skin carpet. Which I snapped a picture of before the dreadful loss of the camera. The picture really doesn't capture the nastiness of that carpet. You had to see it and feel how disgusting it really was. While in good condition, I couldn't stand it. So, we took it out. The best decision of our lives. (which of course is and exagguration, because choosing to move to Logan, pretty good one, marrying Trevor, great one!)

So I actually enjoy being in my living room now.

As soon as I get the drapes finished, and get Trev's camera figured out, I'll post some before and after shots.

Be patient

2009-01-15T07:58:00.001-07:00

So we've settled into our new home in Smithfield, UT. (Near Logan for those of you who don't know)

We don't have internet at home yet, its coming this weekend. So I'll make a good lengthy post later with lots of juicy details, which I know you are all just dying to hear.

Small things...

2008-12-13T11:11:00.001-07:00

Do you see that tiny red dot on Trevor's hand?

Do you see this 1 inch brad?

That brad, went in that hole in Trevor's hand.

Adventures

2008-12-10T20:38:00.000-07:00

Trevor and I spent Thanksgiving with his family in Colorado. If any of you haven't gathered that Trevor is a farmer, I'll provide a list of the activities. First, we went horse back riding. Trevor has two horses, Reba and Mac. Reba used to be really ornery and no one could ride her but Trevor. Now she is too old to be fussy, and I think she sensed that Trevor loves me, she was nice and I was able to ride her, while Trevor rode the feisty, Pepi.

Trevor's sister's horse Diamond, had a colt a few months ago, we believe the father is Mac, so I guess that makes me a grandma? When we were done riding the horses, Trevor helped his dad halter break the colt. Trevor is REALLY good with horses, what normally would take a day or more, Trevor had done in 20 minutes. It was really neat to see.The next day we went to Trevor's uncle's house to brand the new calves. I didn't get any good pictures of that, just a few of cow back sides which I'll spare you all. The one biggest thing about branding was STINKY!!! Burnt hair always smells bad, but add the aroma of cow, with just a touch of smoldering flesh. I think you get the picture.

Finally!!

2008-11-19T20:24:00.000-07:00

Trevor let me cut his hair. It was really long, really being a relative term, because I'm sure it could have been longer. But here is one small handful of what I got off his head.Ah! doesn't he look cute?

Paul Bunyon

2008-10-24T19:31:00.000-06:00

Does anyone know who I'm talking about? I know my family will. Paul Bunyon, (the roll my husband has taken) The strangely large woodsman with a double blade ax and a big blue ox named babe. (a red 83 Chevy in this case)Trevor has taken on the side job of chopping and selling firewood. We spend every weekend and some evenings in the mountains getting logs to saw and chop. And still aren't keeping up with the orders he is getting. Three of his buddies come up to get a piece of the action to help get more wood.Even I from time to time, put down my book and wield the ax. Of course it takes me about 3-4 swings to any of the boys one, but that makes one less swing they have to do. Sorry, no pictures of that. But I do have a fun video at the very end.

9.6.2008

2008-09-27T17:59:00.001-06:00

Sometimes I can't believe I'm married. Does that ever ware off? Well even if it never does, I love it, I love being married and I love my husband! I couldn't have asked for a more perfect day. The sun was shining, it was perfectly warm night, zero wind, which those of you from Twin know that is unusual.I love having pictures with my siblings and also with my nieces and nephews. As you can see below, not everyone was happy to be there... Caleb, obviously wants out, and Spencer is behind Dallin holding onto Grant's shirt he won't run away. Jenna Benson and Abby, just look bored.

It was a lot of fun to see friends and family that I don't get to see too often, and I liked introducing my husband to some of the people who have had a positive influence in my life

For example...(for those of you who don't know, this is my music teacher that was greatly loved, Mr. Smack)

The yard was beautiful! We put twinkle lights up everywhere, it almost had an enchanted feel, especially when if got a little darker. But I think my favorite part of my reception was the cake, I mean come on look at it.Made my none other than myself and it was easy, and fun! And no one thought I could do it!

All in all, I think everyone one had a good time.